Crocker Farm Parent Guardian Organization: Supporting our children, teachers, and the Crocker Farm community through family events & activities, and through fundraising for field trips, classroom mini-grants, and more.

The 5th Annual Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools Latino Achievement Night will be celebrated on May 20, 2011 at Amherst Regional Middle School, 170 Chestnut Street. The event will begin at 6:30pm and all families, friends, staff and community members are invited to attend.

Under the direction of Superintendent of Schools, Maria Geryk and Director of Interventions & ELE, Dr. Marta Guevara, and in keeping with the Social Justice Commitment of the Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools, the 5th Annual ARPS Latino Achievement Night aspires toward equity of opportunity, inclusion, respect and community-building in and out of the classroom.

“Latino Achievement Night was envisioned 6 years ago with the establishment of the Latino Initiative. Data revealed that Latinos were performing at lower levels than other students in the districts,” states Dr. Marta Guevara.“A series of recommendations was formulated to address this critical issue and close the achievement gap. A resulting step was the creation of a community event celebrating the achievements of Latino students paralleling the customs of Latin American countries.”

Latino students in grades K, 6, 8 and 12 are recognized for academic achievement, community spirit, effort, leadership and progress and receive Certificates of Excellence.

In addition, Amherst Police Department Sergeant Jesus Arocho will be honored for his achievements and commitment to the community. Many dignitaries and special guests will be on hand to join in the celebration which will feature music and dance performances by elementary, middle and high school students. Refreshments will also be served.

Superintendent of Schools, Maria Geryk states, “We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our Latino students in such a wonderful way – with family and friends and the greater Amherst community.”

The mission of the Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools is to create a dynamic learning community where students and staff work together and where all students are supported and challenged to achieve their full potential in their intellectual, creative, social and civic endeavors.With parent and community participation, staff and students strive to ensure a safe environment and to promote respect and appreciation for the diversity of individuals, cultures and learning styles.

On Wednesday, May 4th, Crocker Farm will open its doors to next year’s kindergarteners and their families from 8:30-12:30.The PGO is looking for current kindergarten families to answer kindergarten-related questions and/or provide baked goods for the day.Please sign up to take a shift in the lobby to chat with incoming families! Can you help? Email us!

The Crocker Farm PGO is partnering with Western Massachusetts Electric and Mass Save to hold an Energy Saving Fundraiser! This program sells Energy Star light bulbs and Advanced Power Strips at a discount to students and their families with 100% of the proceeds going to Crocker Farm. Money from this fundraiser will help support Crocker Press. Look for a white envelope filled with energy savings information and a catalog in your child's backpack tomorrow, Friday, April 29th. All order forms are due by May 13th. Questions? Contact Becky at 230-3306 or beckydemling@yahoo.com.

TOP 10 Reasons to come to the AEF Spring Sprint:1. Your registration fee will support grants from the Amherst Education Foundation to our schools next year!2. Multi-taskers can do three things at once: support our schools, get in a workout and see friends.3. Oh that nagging New Year's Resolution. . .4. Chance to win lots of great local prizes!5. It's an easy and fun way to show your support for our fabulous teachers!6. It starts early and ends early for those with jam-packed Saturdays.7. School and town celebrities will be running and walking. Can you keep up with Mr. Morris?8. Everyone can participate--walk, run or cheer!9. You'll feel great!10. The first 100 registrants receive a free t-shirt!

Monday, April 25, 2011

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

The superintendent's office has announced that the 2011-2012 school year will start on Tuesday, September 6, 2011. More information is available at http://www.arps.org/view/calendar and a full calendar, with holidays and vacation dates, will be posted next week.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Monday May 2nd is “Preview Day”. Your child will have 20 minutes during the day with their class to preview the books and fill out their Wish List. A parent volunteer will assist your child in writing the book title(s) and price. This way you can discuss with your child what books you agree on.

Tuesday May 3rd and Wednesday May 4th are “Shopping Days”.Your child’s Wish List will say at the top which day is their class Shopping Day. Send in cash or check on this day.

Wednesday May 4th from 6:30 – 8:00pm is the Evening Book Fair. Bring the whole family to shop for books, win raffle prizes and enjoy a treat. This year Clifford the Big Red Dog will be stopping by!

Monday, April 4, 2011

Do you like to knit? Would you like to lend a hand or two with Wednesday Clubs? Our fantastic Knitting Club leader is looking for an assistant during Session 3. Please let us know asap if you can help! studiozed@comcast.net

Friday, April 1, 2011

Join your PGO and the Amherst College Swim and Dive Team for a day of family fun and fitness at the Amherst College Alumni Gym from 1 - 4PM this Sunday, April 3rd. There will be tons of great information and activities to help keep your family healthy. No registration required and the event is FREE! Snacks will be provided. For more information, please contact ajensen11@amherst.edu or beckydemling@yahoo.com.